Time For Dodgers to Live Up to Hype

GLENDALE, Ariz.—The clubhouse on the northeast side of Camelback Ranch is filled with players who know the burden of expectations.

In one corner sits Matt Kemp. In another are Andre Ethier and Hanley Ramirez. Near a set of double doors is Clayton Kershaw. Next to him, Zack Greinke. And somewhere between each of them are three other superstars formerly employed by the Boston Red Sox—Adrian Gonzalez, Carl Crawford and Josh Beckett.

Nearly all in that group know what it’s like to not live up to those expectations.

Kemp had a monster season in 2009, only to tank in 2010 and have his coaches rip him publicly. Ethier showed superstar potential around the same time; now, the Los Angeles...

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